This bill mandates that the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) prohibit telecommunications, electric, gas, and cable television companies from charging credit card or direct debit customers for services before the actual billing due date, which would apply if the customer were paying by cash, money order, or personal check. However, exceptions are made if the customer provides written consent to be charged earlier or requests such a charge through a phone call or other approved means.

The bill aims to protect consumers from premature charges while allowing flexibility for those who choose to authorize earlier payments. The BPU is also empowered to adopt necessary rules and regulations to implement this act, which will take effect 90 days after its enactment, although the board may take preliminary administrative actions to facilitate its purposes.